It is significant because Joshi's special task force would not be possible without the voter-approved Measure Y, giving him the extra manpower to target crime in problem areas.

"Those that have been involved in and continue to be involved in violence can expect more response from the Oakland Police Department and our partners," said Joshi.

In addition to the drugs packaged for street sales, the pre-dawn raid netted netted heroin -- both tar and cut -- $1,600 in cash, two assault rifles, a loaded AR-15 100-round magazine and high caliber and hollow point bullets.

"The .223 and the .762 caliber ammo will cut through police body armor with ease. Our body armor can't stop that type of firepower," said Millington.

Victor Brown has lived and raised his family in West Oakland for more than 30 years and believes he knows why the crime doesn't really gets cleaned up.

"When we have more officers available, when they are working in the community and we have community policing, then you see the crime go down. You take that away, and crime goes right back up again," said Brown.

Oakland Police Chief Howard Jordan is pushing hard for neighborhood policing. He says this morning's raids are only a prelude of what's to come.

"We know that this community has been plagued by violence and we want to make sure we send an impact message to this community that we do care about them," said Jordan.

"I can see they're moving in the right direction, but you have to understand, you're putting a Band-Aid over a serious wound," said Brown.

In 2004 Oakland residents voted to tax themselves for Measure Y. The Violence Prevention and Safety Act uses public funds to fund non-profits and social groups to help reduce violence in troubled areas.